Nativity

The angel Gabriel, sent from the presence of God, announces to the young Mary her future role as the mother of the child Jesus.

Share the good tidings of great joy: that He lives! Luke 2:1-20

Mary visits her relative Elisabeth, who in her old age will also soon give birth to a miraculous child. The women rejoice together. Luke 1:39–55

Traveling to their ancestral city of Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph are unable to find a room in an inn. Instead, they find shelter in a place where animals are kept. Luke 2:4–7

Mary was highly favored of God and chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ. Her humility, devotion, and strength stand as a model for all Christian disciples. Luke 1:26–35

The angel Gabriel announces the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. The shepherds then visit Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus. Luke 2:8–18

John the Baptist is born. Zacharias prophesies of John’s mission to prepare the way for the Son of God. Luke 1:57–80

Mary conceives by the power of the Holy Ghost. Heavenly messengers herald the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Luke 1:26–38; 2:1–19; Matthew 1:20–21

The Wise Men present Jesus with gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. After their visit, Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from the wicked King Herod, who wishes to kill the child. Matthew 2:1–2, 11–15